How much do you need to earn to have a similar or better standard of living in another country? We discuss cost of living, quality of life and issues that impact expats. And offer International cost of living index comparison and expat salary calculators.

Monday, May 6, 2013

Assignment in Shanghai

Today I would like to discuss Shanghai in China. If you were to be sent to Shanghai on an expatriate assignment or if you were to relocate there, you are likely to meet people who speak Mandarin Chinese.

The cost of clothing, food and beverages, and housing is very high. The cost of transport is low. Shanghai is the largest city in China, and one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world. Located on China's central eastern coast at the mouth of the Yangtze River, the city is administered as a municipality of the People's Republic of China with province-level status. Shanghai is often regarded as the centre of finance and trade in mainland China. Shanghai also hosts the largest share market in mainland China.

From a day to day comfort perspective, you are likely to experience a high degree of hardship. Be sure to negotiate an appropriate salary or allowance to compensate for the cost of living. If you live in Shanghai or if you lived there recently, let us know what your experience has been. Would you live in Shanghai again?